Plans to build new, modern school

WOODRIDGE College is planning to build a new, ultra-modern 21st century school following devastating fires that gutted half the school.

At a briefing for parents and pupils at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium yesterday morning, the preparatory school head, Trevor von Berg said while several buildings had been completely gutted, the school would be rebuilt and reopen even better than before.

Speaking to more than 1 000 people gathered at the stadium, Von Berg said while the destruction was devastating, a lot of positives could come from it.

“We can look at improving our facilities. It is a wonderful opportunity to set up a modern institution,” he said.

“Some of the buildings were pretty old. Now we can look at having more modern classrooms which will help us bring education into the 21st century. “Education is what matters most.” He said the school, which celebrated its 50th anniversary last year, would remain closed until July 4, with preparations being made to secure prefab classrooms, mobile kitchens and setting up IT systems.

Von Berg said he was overwhelmed by the offers of assistance.

“Principals from near and far. People I have never spoken to or met before. Everyone has been amazing,” he said.

“It proves that South Africans are there for one another.”

School chaplain Ronnie Alright said: “Nothing in this world is permanent. It is all temporary. We will rise from the ashes. Out of death comes new life and from new life comes hope.”

College headmaster Derek Bradley said when he saw so many people coming to offer assistance he knew Woodridge would be all right.

Mayor Athol Trollip, who attended Woodridge for 10 years and left 36 years ago, said: “I have no doubt the school will be revitalised.”

He said Woodridge had a pilgrim spirit – a legacy from those who had started the school.

Woodridge Trust chairman Andrea Puggia said about eight prefab classrooms and one or two mobile kitchens were being secured and a temporary dining room would be set up.

“Staff will be accommodated offsite. House parents and those on site will be accommodated in mobile homes,” he said.

The trust had visited the school to assess the damage and it was adequately insured to begin the rebuild.

“We will also arrange a visit to the school, possibly later this week, for the children to see the damage in a controlled environment,” Puggia said.

Von Berg said seeing the school and watching the rebuild process would form part of the learning process for the pupils.